WATERLOO, Iowa — One of college wrestling’s greatest coaches will be recognized with his own day in his hometown. Jim Miller Day will be declared in Waterloo, Iowa, on Monday, Aug. 26.

Miller graduated from Waterloo East High School in 1971 after placing third at the Iowa High School state wrestling tournament his senior year. He won individual NCAA Division II championships at the University of Northern Iowa in 1974 and 1975, and was a two-time Division I All-American. 

Miller recently retired as the head wrestling coach at Wartburg College after 22 seasons. He led his team to 10 NCAA Division III wrestling championships and 21 consecutive Iowa Intercollegiate Conference titles. He also coached 33 individual NCAA champions and 145 All-Americans. Miller also coached his son, T.J., to an individual NCAA championship in 2007.

“Jim Miller has a special place in the history of our sport,” said Kyle Klingman, director of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum. “He turned a Division III school into a nationally recognized wrestling program. His legacy transcends the sport.”

Waterloo mayor Buck Clark will read a proclamation at 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 26 during the Waterloo City Council meeting. There will be a reception and a program for Miller at the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum beginning at 6 p.m. The Dan Gable Museum is located at 303 Jefferson St. in Waterloo. 

Scheduled speakers include Joe Breitbach, Mike Allen, Eric Keller, Doug Schwab, Jerry Roling, and Jim Miller. 

Schedule of events

5:30 p.m. – Jim Miller Day proclamation read aloud at the Waterloo City Council meeting.

6 p.m. – Social at the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum

6:30 p.m. – Program at the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum. Speakers include Joe Breitbach, Mike Allen, Eric Keller, Doug Schwab, Jerry Roling, and Jim Miller.